Kuniyoshi 国芳: Yokogawa Kanpei Munenori (横川勘平宗則) of the 47 Ronin

Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi 国芳 (1798-1861)
Title: Yokogawa Kanpei Munenori (横川勘平宗則) Dripping Wet
Series: Portraits of Loyal and Righteous Samurai (Seichû gishi shôzô) 誠忠義士省像
Date: 1852

Large, half-length portrait of one of the Forty-seven Ronin. Yokogawa Kanpei Munenori (横川勘平宗則) is shown in profile, dripping wet and wringing out his jacket, which has his name written on the collar. His face seems curiously western, and we see snow on the tree behind him.  Only about a dozen prints in this series were brought to completion, and they are known for their strong western influence. 

Condition:  Very good impression, color and condition. Minor trimming and restored fold near left margin.
Dimensions: ôban (35.8 x 24.5 cm)
Publisher: Sumiyoshiya Masagorô
Literature: Robinson S78.4. See British Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art collections online.
Seal: kiri
Signature: Ichiyûsai Kuniyoshi ga

SKU: KUY553